LAB TEST
Heart CT scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create detailed pictures of the heart and its blood vessels. This test is called a coronary calcium scan when it is done to see if you have a buildup of calcium in your heart arteries. It is called CT angiography if it is done to look at the arteries that bring blood to your heart. This test evaluates if there is narrowing or a blockage in those arteries. The test is sometimes done in combination with scans of the aorta or pulmonary arteries to look for problems with those structures.
How the Test is Performed
You will be asked to lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. You will lie on your back with your head and feet outside the scanner on either end. Small patches, called electrodes are put on your chest and connected to a machine that records your heart's electrical activity. You may be…
How to Prepare for the Test
Certain exams require a special dye, called contrast, to be delivered into the body before the test starts. Contrast helps certain areas show up better on the x-rays. Contrast can be given through a vein (IV) in your hand or forearm. If contrast is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4 to 6…
How the Test will Feel
Some people may have discomfort from lying on the hard table. Contrast given through an IV may cause a: Slight burning sensation Metallic taste in the mouth Warm flushing of the body These sensations are normal and usually go away within a few seconds.
Why the Test is Performed
CT rapidly creates detailed pictures of the heart and its arteries. The test may diagnose or detect: Plaque buildup in the coronary arteries to determine your risk for heart disease Congenital heart disease (heart problems that are present at birth) Problems with the heart valves Blockage of the arteries that supply…
Normal Results
Results are considered normal if the heart and arteries being examined are normal in appearance. Your "calcium score" is based on the amount of calcium (plaque) found in the arteries of your heart. The test is normal (negative) if your calcium score is 0. This means the chance of having a heart attack over the next…
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results may be due to: Aneurysm Congenital heart disease Coronary artery disease Heart valve problems Inflammation of the covering around the heart (pericarditis) Narrowing of one or more coronary arteries (coronary artery stenosis) Tumors or other masses of the heart or surrounding areas Calcium scores above…
Risks
Risks for CT scans include: Being exposed to radiation Allergic reaction to contrast dye CT scans do expose you to more radiation than regular x-rays. Having many x-rays or CT scans over time may increase your risk for cancer. However, the risk from any one scan is small. You and your provider should weigh this risk…
References
Blankstein R. Cardiac computed tomography. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Tomaselli GF, Bhatt DL, Solomon SD, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022: chap 20. Doherty JU, Kort S, Mehran R, et al. ACC/AATS/AHA/ASE/ASNC/HRS/SCAI/SCCT/SCMR/STS…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 10/04/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.